- 15 minutes ago
Second Turning
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Short filmTranscript
00:00Previous life, I got what I wanted, I married him and we performed the mate bonding ceremony.
00:05With that union, he inherited the high king's resources and rose to become the ruler of all
00:09four clans. However, what I did not expect was that after our wedding, he turned around and
00:14marked my adoptive sister. Only three days after our bonding ceremony, I returned to our bedroom
00:19and found Iris and Ruby tangled together on my bed. On the wall right in front of them hung our
00:24wedding photo, Iris and I smiling in our ceremonial robes, looking like the perfect royal couple.
00:31He didn't even stop when he saw me standing there. He just looked at me with cold indifference and
00:35continued moving inside her. My parents were furious when they found out and immediately sent her away.
00:41From that day on, Iris hated me with a vengeance. He surrounded himself with women who all looked
00:47eerily like her. One by one, they came, each more vicious than the last. With his silent approval,
00:53they tore me down, piece by piece. Until I was nothing more than a joke, no longer the queen I
00:59once was. The suffering pushed me into severe depression. Only suppressants kept my wolf form
01:05from spiraling out of control. Until one day, my medication was replaced with a slow acting poison.
01:11He was the one who did it. I died alone, locked away in the cold palace, a child still growing
01:17inside me.
01:18However, fate gave me another chance. In this life, I would not make the same mistake.
01:24When the High King once again asked me to choose a partner for the marriage alliance,
01:29I chose Damon, the one no one ever noticed, without even blinking dot.
01:35I thought I was finally free of the past. However, the moment the engagement was announced,
01:40Alpha Iris lost his mind.
01:45On my 18th birthday, the High King summoned the heirs of the four great clans, the vampires,
01:51the werewolves, the High Serpent clan, and the marefolk. A flutter of glowing wings filled the
01:56throne room as a dozen tiny fairies flew in, each carrying a gilded portrait. They arranged themselves
02:02in a neat row before me, lifting the images high so I could see every candidate's face.
02:07The portraits shimmered with enchantment, each one alive, the men inside them moving slightly.
02:13And there, at the very end, Damon, the werewolf with no noble bloodline,
02:17his gaze soft and steady despite the rough edges of his face. The fairies waited,
02:22their tiny wings humming. Then the High King's voice rang out, ancient and absolute.
02:27Choose one to be your bondmate.
02:30I did not hesitate. I pointed to Damon, the werewolf with no noble bloodline,
02:35born in a forgotten corner of the realm. The entire court erupted in disbelief.
02:41Everyone knew who I used to love. Alpha Iris, the heir of the most powerful leak in bloodline.
02:47For seven years, I chased him with blind devotion. No matter how harshly he treated me,
02:53I never gave up. I confessed to him over and over, sometimes right in the royal court.
02:58I even performed a bloodbinding ritual, slitting my wrist, to earn the right to marry him.
03:04In my previous life, I got what I wanted, I married him and we performed the mate bonding
03:09ceremony. With that union, he inherited the High King's resources and rose to become the ruler of
03:15all four clans. However, what I did not expect was that after our wedding, he turned around and marked
03:21my adoptive sister. My parents were furious and sent her away. From that day on, Iris hated me with a
03:28vengeance. He surrounded himself with women who all looked eerily like her. One by one,
03:33they came each more vicious than the last. With his silent approval, they tore me down,
03:39piece by piece, until I was nothing more than a joke. No longer the queen I once was.
03:44The suffering pushed me into severe depression. Only suppressants kept my wolf form from spiraling out
03:51of control. Until one day, my medication was replaced with a slow-acting poison. He was the
03:57one who did it. I died alone, locked away in the cold palace, a child still growing inside me. However,
04:04the moon goddess granted me another chance. Reborn in this life, I chose to let them have each other,
04:10but what I didn't expect was that Alpha Iris had been reborn too.
04:17I had just stepped out of the High King's Grand Palace when I bumped into Iris and his
04:22wolfish crew. The heirs of the four great clans took one look at me, and scattered like ants in
04:27a disrupted anthill. They could not resist throwing a few jabs my way as they left.
04:32Back to haunt Alpha Iris, Sophie. You've got guts, I'll give you that. You'll stop at nothing to chase
04:38after a guy. Aren't you worried your late heroic granddad's watching from above shaking his head
04:43in disappointment? Iris stood there, his eyes frostier than the arctic, sizing me up as if I
04:48were an insect. What's your angle this time? Hoping the High King will go to bat for you again?
04:52Still harping on that ancient favor your grandpa did for him in the war?
04:56How many times can your family play that card? His voice dripped with contempt,
05:01his eyes rolling with irritation. You've turned this into royal court gossip, dragging my name through
05:08the mud. I won't mark you as mine, not even if you beg the moon goddess herself.
05:14I knew that look all too well. My love had never even nudged his heart. I swallowed the storm inside
05:20me, keeping my voice steady. This has nothing to do with you. The High King called for me. He's going
05:29to lead my coming of age ceremony himself tomorrow. The words hung in the air, and the heirs who had
05:34not
05:34quite disappeared stopped dead in their tracks. I understood their shock. The High King had long
05:47since stepped back from such formalities, often sending others in his stead for even his own kin's
05:52events. His direct involvement was no small matter. In a world of werewolves, vampires, the High Serpent
05:59clan, and mere folk, I stood among them as a pure blood werewolf. With a lineage untainted, I was
06:06seen as the ideal partner for the next generation. The High King had made his intentions clear when I
06:11was just 17. He declared that at my coming of age ceremony, he would pick a husband for me from
06:17the
06:17royal heirs of the four great clans. Whoever he chose would take over the High King's power and lands,
06:23stepping up as the new supreme leader. The crowd snapped out of their daze, chuckling as they clapped
06:28Iris on the back, their eyes twinkling with sly praise. Way to go, Alpha Iris! You're set for
06:34life! Don't forget about us when you're on top. The High King's got your back, and now you're the
06:41real deal, the next in line for the throne! Iris shot me a look, his smirk loaded with pride and
06:48a
06:48hint of mockery. You've been pining after me for years, and now you've got your wish. Does that feel
06:56good? He leaned in, his voice dropping to a murmur. Just so we're clear, I'm laying down
07:02the law to avoid any future drama. This whole mate contract thing is just for show. Sure,
07:10you'll be my lunar name. But don't even think about butting into my personal life, or trying
07:19to boss me and my wolf around. Play by my rules. And I might just be persuaded to mock you.
07:37I was seething with anger at his outrageous demands. It was beyond ridiculous. A thought struck me.
07:45Could it be? Had he been reborn, too? Right then, a gentle, frail voice called from behind me.
07:55I turned to see Ruby in a stunning velvet gown, her eyes rimmed with red, coughing softly as she
08:00approached me, looking innocent. Iris's face transformed in an instant, and he hurried over
08:07to her. You're still not well. What are you doing out here? Dad sent me. He worried my sister would
08:19be lonely in the royal court all by herself. Iris gave me an icy, mocking glance. Aren't you a
08:26delicate one, needing company just to leave the house? Can't you see that Ruby's sick? With that,
08:31he led Ruby away. Before they were out of sight, Iris threw one last chilling look my way. His voice
08:38a stern warning. Sophie, if you keep acting like you're better than Ruby and picking on her,
08:46forget about me joining you in that bonding ceremony! The words had barely left his mouth
08:51when Iris suddenly stopped. You go ahead first. I'll catch up in a moment. He murmured something to
08:56Ruby and gently pushed her forward. As soon as Ruby disappeared around the corner,
09:01I let out a cold, mocking laugh, and said provocatively,
09:04Running after her again? How pathetic. Are you really that afraid of being alone with me,
09:09Alpha? Or do you know that if you touch me, you might not be able to control yourself?
09:16Iris's eyes flashed with dangerous fury. In the next second, he spun around, grabbed my wrist with
09:22bruising force, and dragged me into the shadowed side corridor. The moment the door of a small empty
09:28chamber slammed shut behind us. He shoved me hard against the wall. His large hand wrapped around
09:34my throat as his mouth crashed down on mine in a fierce, punishing kiss. There was no gentleness,
09:40only raw dominance and anger. His tongue invaded aggressively. I hated how fast my body reacted.
09:48Heat surged through me as he pressed his thigh between my legs, grinding hard. He tore open my gown
09:54and took one sensitive peek into his hot mouth, sucking roughly. A helpless moan slipped out.
10:00That sound broke his last restraint. Iris suddenly spun me around, pinning me chest first against the
10:06cold stone wall. He gripped my hip tightly and yanked my hair back, his scorching lips attacking the
10:12back of my neck, kissing and biting down my spine as if marking his territory.
10:16Get the fuck off me, you bastard! I twisted and kicked, but he pressed me harder against the wall.
10:25Disgusting! Let go! With all my strength, I slammed my heel backward and kicked him hard between the
10:31legs. Iris let out a pained grunt and staggered back, releasing me. His face twisted in agony as he
10:37cupped himself, breathing heavily. I quickly pulled my torn gown together, chest heaving with rage.
10:46Touch me again, and I'll make sure and assure you regret it for the rest of your life.
10:51I spat coldly. He glared at me with dark, curious eyes, but didn't step closer this time. I let out
10:58a shaky, bitter laugh. Iris, buddy, it's actually me who's not interested in this bonding ceremony with
11:04you. I mused silently. It was the day of the coming-of-age ceremony. The ceremony had wrapped up,
11:11and the guests had trickled out when I finally made my way in, walking a little awkwardly.
11:16Iris followed close behind, a smug, satisfied look on his face. Anyone with half a clue could
11:23have guessed what we had been up to. Iris barely gave me a second glance before his eyes swept
11:28the room and landed on Ruby. A lazy grin spread across his lips. He strode over to her, whispered
11:34something in her ear, and Ruby giggled, squatting his chest playfully. The two of them fell into easy
11:40banter, his hand resting casually on her lower back. In the past, that would have made me lose my
11:47cool. One was a guy I had been crushing on forever, and the other was my half-sister. Even if
11:52you didn't
11:53love me, could you at least pretend to care about decency? But now, I simply turned away and busied
12:02myself with something else, refusing to give them the satisfaction of a reaction. Iris caught my look,
12:08especially that brief pause, and his smirk faltered for just a moment. The angry outburst he had been
12:14waiting for never came. His smile slowly twisted into a grimace, like something was gnawing at him,
12:20and he could not help but throw a jab my way. You're not just pretending not to care because
12:25you're scared I'll change my mind, are you? Alright, you're playing it cool today. Since you know I
12:33will be the next High King, it's obvious I won't be tied down to just one girl for life. I'll
12:39have
12:39plenty of lovers. He boasted. So here, this is for you. He pulled out a fancy little wooden box from
12:47his
12:47pocket. But before he could hand it over, Ruby grabbed it. Wow, it's gorgeous. Ruby's eyes lit
12:54up as she admired the gem. Isn't this the true love gem from Lord of Winterhout? You can't even buy
13:02these. Iris, caught off guard, quickly said, You like it? Then it's yours. Ruby put on a show of
13:11hesitation. I can't possibly take this. It's a special gift you picked out for my sister.
13:16Her words trailed off, but her eyes stayed locked on me, a smug smile playing on her lips.
13:24Iris let out a carefree chuckle. Keep it. I'll just whip up something else for her.
13:28She treasures anything that comes from me anyway.
13:33The room was filled with the low chuckles of the other clan heirs.
13:37Just like that. A flood of memories I had kept locked away came crashing back. I was transported to
13:43that snowy Christmas when I had trudged through the storm to give Iris a present, only to get
13:47soaked to the bone. He tossed his cloak at me and casually said, Don't catch a cold. I had clung
13:53to
13:53that cloak like a priceless treasure, hiding it for years. Until he caught me one day, secretly
13:59inhaling its scent. His face turned stormy, and he shouted, You're pathetic. I turned beet red,
14:06from my cheeks to the tips of my ears. The high king had to intervene, tapping him with his cane.
14:12She's just a kid. Watch your words. He shut up then, but he ensured the story spread to every
14:18air of every clan. I became the butt of everyone's jokes. With that memory burning in my mind,
14:24I spun on my heel, ready to escape the party I had grown to loathe. However, Iris stepped in front
14:30of me, blocking my path. He grabbed my wrist, his grip firm and hot. For a second, neither of us
14:49moved. His thumb brushed slowly over my pulse point, sending an unwelcome spark through my body. His scent,
14:55dark pine, and musk wrapped around me, too familiar and dangerously intoxicating. I yanked my wrist back,
15:03but the heat of his touch lingered on my skin. Alpha Iris, you'd better watch your tone. He let
15:09out a derisive laugh. Watch my tone? You're the one who's been begging me to mark you. We're destined
15:15to end up together, so why play innocent? I met his gaze and said, each word deliberate and clear.
15:21Who said I'd ever choose you as my mate? The room went dead quiet. The wolves around me erupted in
15:28laughter, their howls echoing off the walls. Iris's face was a mask of ice. Who else could you possibly
15:35choose? You were so head over wheels for me. Would you ever be happy to marry anyone else? I come
15:40from
15:41the Silvermoon pack, the mightiest of all werewolf packs, and I carry the noblest lycan blood. Sure,
15:48Alpha Damon's decent enough, but his lineage is nothing special, no match for mine. Apparently,
15:53his wolf is quite weak. He was poisoned with wolf's bane a few years ago. His stamina's never been the
16:00same since then. You really want to marry him? Be stuck with a weaker wolf for life?
16:07Every eye in the room was on me, waiting for my answer. Just then, Alpha Damon made his way into
16:13the hall, looking frail, struggling to walk at any speed. Muffled laughter spread through the
16:18crowd as I was about to declare that I would choose to marry Damon. However, the High King's
16:23words echoed in my mind. Your heart truly lies with Damon, I'll honor your choice. However,
16:29keep it under wraps for now. Once the dust settles, the truth will come out. I bit back my words,
16:36hesitating. Damon caught my eye, his gaze filled with a sadness I could not ignore. I got the High King's
16:42point. With all those airs from different clans watching, each hungry for power, I could not just
16:47blurt out my feelings. So, I decided to let them think what they wanted and walked away from that
16:52choking atmosphere. On the drive home, Ruby and I shared a car. She flicked her wrist, and the gems
16:58in her box glittered so intensely I had to squint. So what if you marry Alpha Iris? His heart will
17:04always to me. Her voice dripping with challenge. I leaned back in my seat, a slow smile curling across
17:12my lips. His heart? Ruby's eyes narrowed. Ruby, let me tell you something about men. At least Iris
17:20sleeps with me. And you know what they say. Where a man's lower pat goes, his heart follows.
17:28The car went dead silent. Ruby's smug expression froze on her face, then cracked. Her cheeks flushed a deep,
17:35angry red, spreading all the way to the tips of her ears. She clutched the wooden box so hard her
17:41knuckles went white. You! You're lying! Am I? I shrugged. You saw how we walked in today. My legs
17:52were still shaking. His neck? Those scratches weren't from you, were they? Her voice came out shrill,
18:00nothing like the sweet, innocent tone she put on for everyone else. You're disgusting! I smiled.
18:07Maybe. But at least I'm not delusional.
18:12Ruby was like two different people. To the world, she was the picture of sweetness and innocence,
18:19but when we were alone, her true colors came out, sharp and dangerous. I could not shake the memory
18:25of her previous life, wrapped up with Iris. Nothing between them. She was curled up in Iris's arms,
18:32a scared little wolf, while Iris clutched her close as if he was protecting her from me.
18:36I felt like I would break down right then and there. Later, my parents sent Ruby off to some
18:42small town and married her to a high circuit king who was always off fighting wars. She had it way
18:48easier than I did. However, I decided to let her stick with Iris in this life. I was curious to
18:55see
18:55how that would turn out. What do I care where his heart lies? If you're so into him, go ahead
19:00and let
19:01him mark you. I hope the moon goddess blesses you too. Ruby paused, then smirked and laughed.
19:07Your blessings? No thanks, they might be cursed. However, no matter what, Alpha Iris is mine.
19:16Thanksgiving rolled around, and my dad had me take a gift to the high king.
19:23I walked into the royal court, and there was Ruby, all dolled up in a red dress and dripping with
19:28jewels, looking like a million bucks. She caught my eye and gave me that little smile.
19:34Sophie, do you like my dress? Alpha Iris gave it to me. I told him I wasn't into all this
19:40bling,
19:41but he wouldn't take no for an answer. He said I deserved the best.
19:45I was annoyed and tried to walk away, but Ruby blocked my path.
19:50Sophie, can't we just talk? You look so down. I get it, it's tough. Feelings can be a real pain
20:00to deal with. She said, and then she started crying. However, it was all an act. I tried to
20:08shove her aside, but she collapsed with a dramatic gasp, clutching her leg and wailing about the pain.
20:15Why did you hit me? I'm your little sister.
20:18Sophie, what the heck are you doing?
20:21His finger was practically a claw as he jabbed it in my direction.
20:30How could you be so cruel to your sister? That's just evil.
20:34I could not help it. I burst out laughing, looking from Iris to Ruby.
20:39Ruby, I have to hand it to you. Your little act is pretty convincing.
20:45It's quite the piece of work.
20:48Out of nowhere, the wolf's hole cut through the room. Iris spun around, his hand a blur as it came
20:55down hard across my face, leaving a trail of scratches.
21:00Don't you dare talk about Ruby that way!
21:03He shouted. The sting on my cheek felt like a burn, and my inner wolf seethed with anger. I wanted
21:09to lash out, but a quick glance at the onlookers held me back. I had to get out of there.
21:15Ruby smirked, clearly pleased with herself. Iris, realizing he had lost his cool, reached out to help me out, but
21:24Ruby clung to him.
21:26Honey, my legs are hurting. Can you check on them for me? Iris' lone mother, my family.
21:36The crowd watched, murmuring to each other.
21:39Sophie must be so desperate for a guy that she'd even take down her sister. That's low.
21:45Iris' gaze was full of loathing.
21:50Sophie, what have you done? Getting your attention is the worst luck.
21:55His wolf pack buddy snickered behind him, enjoying the drama.
22:00Sophie, you'd even go after your sister. If Alpha Iris had a circle of female friends, would you lose it?
22:13Maybe Sophie could take on the whole pack. She might shred every girl that would dare hang around Alpha Iris.
22:24Back then, I trained in combat just for Iris, vowing that if anyone tried to take him from me, they
22:30would regret it.
22:31However, looking back, I was way out of my league. While they laughed, Iris came up to me, and I
22:38see Smirk playing on his lips.
22:41After we're married, we'll live separate lives. Play nice, and maybe I'll let you save some dignity in this marriage.
22:50I was floored. How could the heir to our kind say something so outrageous?
22:55He took my silence for consent, his grin growing wider.
22:59Just keep in line, and I won't let you embarrass yourself in public.
23:04He was sure I would fall in line.
23:06Then came the sound of footsteps.
23:08The High King's right-hand man, his second in command, stepped out, with Damon, the werewolf, in tow.
23:15He was not the sickly figure I remembered, but was decked out in a deep purple suit with delicate gold
23:20embroidery that showed off his strong build.
23:23He noticed the dried blood on my face, made his way through the crowd, and stopped in front of me.
23:29You okay?
23:56You okay?
23:59I don't care if that hurts. Damon, she's going to be my wife.
24:02The second in command seemed slightly startled by Iris's words. However, he shrugged it off and said,
24:08Let's head in. The High King's waiting for us.
24:10As Iris strutted by me, he muttered a warning under his breath.
24:14Don't forget what I told you.
24:15He strutted away, looking smug as if he had the whole world in his pocket.
24:19The guests had all filed into the great hall, where the High King sat in the place of honor.
24:24With a warm smile, he stood, took my hand, and led me to the platform.
24:29Today, I have a big announcement.
24:31He said, pausing to look around at everyone gathered.
24:37Sophie's 18 now, and as promised to her granddad, we will choose a suitable husband from the heirs of the
24:45four great clans.
24:46Whoever she marries will be next in line for my throne.
24:51The High King's wealth was legendary, and his throne was the ultimate prize.
24:56Desire was written all over the faces of the guests.
25:00Let's bring up the couple, and I'll vouch for them myself.
25:04Iris was already stepping forward, ready to climb onto the stage.
25:09However, the High King stopped him with a smile and turned to Damon, who was standing off to the side.
25:15Dressed to the nines, Damon was far from the weakling everyone remembered.
25:19He stood tall, his gaze steady, capturing everyone's attention.
25:24He walked up with a crystal crown in hand.
25:27Sophie, my future Luna, come and join me.
25:32He said.
25:34The room was abuzz with hushed voices that quickly grew louder.
25:39Can you believe it?
25:42Betraying Iris?
25:43No way!
25:44She's betraying Iris!
25:46No way!
25:47That can't be right!
25:50Iris's face lost all color.
25:52His hands balled into fists, rage written all over him.
25:55He spun around to face the High King, his eyes wide with shock and disbelief.
26:01High King, there's gotta be some mistake, right?
26:04The High King just gave him an icy look and let out a mocking laugh.
26:08His second-in-command picked up where he left off.
26:12The High King has said it loud and clear.
26:15Sophie's chosen Damon.
26:17Iris yelled, his voice laced with disbelief.
26:20That's impossible!
26:21Sophie, tell them!
26:23You picked me, didn't you?
26:24It was me you chose!
26:26His eyes were desperate, as if he could not trust his own ears.
26:30I kept my voice calm.
26:32I chose Damon.
26:34Damon gave me a soft, warm smile.
26:36Iris, though, was beyond furious, and he lunged forward.
26:40You're into me!
26:41Everyone from the four great clans knows it!
26:44How could you pick some werewolf from the sticks?
26:47This has to mistake!
26:54What are you waiting for?
26:56The guards finally snapped to it and rushed to drag Iris off.
26:59Take him away!
27:00Now!
27:01However, Iris was not about to give up.
27:04He spun around, shouting at me.
27:07Sophie, come on!
27:08Tell them you chose me!
27:10Just say you messed up!
27:12To the High King!
27:13To the High King!
27:15The High King waved his hand, clearly annoyed, and the guards shut the doors.
27:20The hall fell silent.
27:22The second-in-command handed me a wooden box once more.
27:26Sophie, this is the High King's blessing, paving the way for your future.
27:31I looked down at the wooden box in my hands, knowing full well what it meant.
27:35It was the symbol of the High King's power and riches.
27:38Later, at the banquet, I looked around and did not spot Iris anywhere.
27:43As I turned, I bumped into Damon's arms, his familiar sense sending a jolt through me.
27:49Memories came flooding back, overwhelming me like a tidal wave.
27:54The agony of my previous life with Iris was inescapable.
27:58In my previous life, Iris had tampered with my meds, knocking me out with Wolfsbane and landing me in a
28:04clinic.
28:05Damon was frantic, begging the healer for help.
28:08He punched Iris right in the face, his voice thundering as he shouted.
28:13She should never have been yours!
28:16After I died, Damon dug up a mountain of dirt on Iris and yanked him off his throne.
28:21By that time, I was just a wandering spirit.
28:25Still, Damon's bold moves shook me to the core.
28:27I could not fathom why he would go to such lengths for me.
28:31However, in my new life, the voice inside me was crystal clear.
28:36Marry him, and you'll never have a single regret.
28:39The feast kicked off, and the High King called Damon to the High Table.
28:43Without a word, it was clear, Damon was the chosen successor.
28:48Damon did not flinch.
28:49He took his seat next to the King, like he belonged there.
28:53The crowd whispered among themselves, stunned.
28:56No one saw it coming, me picking a guy the pack had written off.
29:00They all had me pegged for Iris.
29:02However, the real shocker?
29:05Everyone knew Damon had been through the ringer in battle.
29:08As for his instincts?
29:10Well, it was up for debate.
29:16While everyone was busy gossiping, Iris, stinking of booze, bulldozed his way to the High King.
29:22He was a mess, barely saying.
29:25Your majesty, you can't let them tie the knot!
29:29The High King shot him a look that could freeze fire and snapped, saying.
29:34Get this drunk out of here.
29:36Don't let him make a scene.
29:38However, Iris was not about to roll over.
29:41He roared at the King, shouting.
29:44You can't do this!
29:47Doofy.
29:49Sophie and I, our wolf spirits, are like magnets.
29:53We're head over heels with each other.
29:56You can't just hand her to someone else.
29:58The High King's eyes locked onto me, a sly smirk playing on his lips, tinged with a dash of scorn.
30:05Wolf spirit kinship?
30:07That's news to me.
30:09Go on, tell him, Sophie.
30:10I let out a soft chuckle, my voice steady and serene.
30:16I'm not sure why Alpha Iris is saying that.
30:21He's like a brother to me, but his heart?
30:26It's always been set on my sister, Ruby.
30:31Iris's lips quivered, his face a mask of disbelief as he begged me.
30:35No, Sophie, I've always loved you and no one else.
30:38And you whine to me, and you want Anne and appeal for the world to not-
30:51Then, with a wild grin, he hissed, saying.
30:55I get it.
30:56You're jealous, so you're using Damon to get under my skin, right?
31:00You're doing this because I gave Ruby the gift at your coming-of-age party.
31:04Alpha Iris, cut the drama.
31:08Demon and I are getting married.
31:10End of story.
31:11Iris's face twisted in fury, and he lunged for me.
31:15Sophie, you're meant to be mine!
31:18He reached out to snatch me, but Damon stepped in, blocking him.
31:24Alpha Iris, it's Thanksgiving, remember?
31:28Time and place, man.
31:34You've been turned down.
31:36Sophie's with me.
31:37Damon's voice was a deep, unwavering growl.
31:41Iris, seething, shoved Damon aside.
31:44You're nothing but a low-born werewolf from the Styx, and you dare talk back to me?
31:51And what if I do?
31:53The High King slammed his scepter down hard, silencing the hall instantly.
31:57You're barred from the royal court from this day forward.
32:01Go and think about what you've done.
32:03Iris' eyes were blazing with a furious red as he yelled.
32:07Sophie, you gotta tell the High King it's me you're into!
32:11It's my wolf that you want to be with!
32:16I just turned and flashed Damon a soft, reassuring smile.
32:20However, Damon hung his head like he could not bear to meet my gaze.
32:24The rumor mill was in overdrive outside.
32:28Can you believe Iris stood up to the High Ming for Sophie?
32:31I heard she picked Damon.
32:33Now Iris and Sophie's sister is thick as thieves.
32:35And that's no dick, right?
32:37They're the kind sausages.
32:38You don't even think you're crazy thieves, too.
32:40Man, things are heating up.
32:42It's wild, right?
32:42I ignored all the whispers and chatter.
32:45My mind was on the future.
32:47My wedding with Damon was set for next month.
32:50Damon had come to me a few days back.
32:52His eyes locked on mine for the longest time before he finally broke the silence.
32:57If you're having second thoughts,
33:04I can talk to the High King to call off our engagement.
33:08Why would I be having second thoughts?
33:10I said, my voice steady as a rock.
33:14I know you had a thing for Alpha Iris once.
33:17There was a hint of hurt in his voice that he could not quite hide.
33:23That took me back to my previous life when Damon had gone to the ends of the earth for me,
33:28nearly sacrificing it all.
33:30I felt my eyes well up.
33:33Yeah, I had feelings for him once, but that's history.
33:37I used to be so headstrong, thinking if I just held on tight enough, I could make anything happen.
33:45However, I get it now.
33:48Love doesn't work like that.
33:50I know it's that indus for me.
33:54I had this dream, you see, where you were the one who saved me.
33:59That was why I was so pumped the first couple of times we met.
34:03He sounded like he could not believe it.
34:06Damon's ears turned a shade pinker, and he looked down.
34:12So you're sure about this?
34:14About marrying me?
34:15His voice shook just a little.
34:17A smile broke across his face.
34:20He pulled a wooden box from behind his back,
34:23roughly the same size as the one the High King had given me.
34:31He said, his voice deep and tinged with a hint of bashfulness.
34:36I'll be left with nothing, if I ever let you down.
34:42He had clearly thought this through before he came.
34:45I stared at the wooden box in my hands,
34:48my heart stirring with deep emotion.
34:50The High King had been generous because of a past debt,
34:53but Damon's sincerity was something else entirely.
34:55I didn't ask.
34:57Instead, I tucked the box away carefully.
35:00Then, I unclasped the gemstone pendant my grandma had left me
35:03and placed it in his hands.
35:05Damon accepted it with reverence,
35:07cradling it gently as if it were the most precious thing in the world.
35:11Sophie, I'll always treat you right.
35:13He said, his voice gentle yet resolute.
35:16The air between us grew heavy with emotion.
35:19Damon stepped closer,
35:21cupping my face with warm, steady hands.
35:24He kissed me slowly and deeply,
35:27full of quiet devotion and longing.
35:29His touch was completely different from Iris's,
35:32gentle, patient, and filled with reverence.
35:35We moved toward the bed without breaking the kiss.
35:38He laid me down carefully,
35:40his lips trailing soft,
35:41worshipful kisses along my neck and collarbone
35:44as he slowly removed my dress.
35:46His hands explored my body with tender caresses,
35:49stroking and teasing until I was trembling beneath him.
35:55When he finally entered me,
35:57it was slow and deep,
35:58every movement filled with warmth and emotion.
36:01We moved together in a steady, intimate rhythm,
36:04foreheads pressed together,
36:06breathing each other in.
36:07For the first time in both my lives,
36:10I felt truly safe and cherished.
36:13Afterward, we lay tangled in the sheets.
36:16Damon held me close,
36:17pressing a soft kiss to my temple,
36:20his arms wrapped protectively around me.
36:22Back home,
36:23Ruby was perched by the piano in the living room.
36:26The door's noise made her whip around,
36:28shooting me a fierce glare.
36:30Sophie,
36:31you're so sly,
36:32using Damon to get under Alpha Iris's skin.
36:35Alpha Iris couldn't care less about your games.
36:37And everyone knows Damon's a nobody.
36:41So what?
36:42You plan to spend your life alone if you marry him?
36:47Her laugh was self-satisfied as she finished.
36:50Her smug face almost made my inner wolf lash out,
36:53but I kept calm.
36:55That was when a servant's voice boomed through the house.
36:59Isn't that Alpha Iris?
37:02Miss Sophie,
37:03you've got to see this!
37:07I rushed to the window,
37:08and there he was, Iris,
37:10standing in our yard,
37:11with our neighbors whispering and watching.
37:14Check it out!
37:15Alpha Iris is heading this way.
37:18Rumor has it he's got a thing for Sophie.
37:20I had not even opened my mouth when Ruby bolted toward him.
37:26Alpha Iris,
37:27are you here for me?
37:29However,
37:29Iris did not even flinch as he brushed her aside.
37:32Ruby stumbled and hit the ground hard from his shove.
37:36Sophie,
37:37be my Luna.
37:40We're meant to be together.
37:43He said,
37:44dropping to one knee.
37:45With everyone's eyes on him,
37:47he pulled out a ring,
37:49his gaze burning with earnest passion.
37:51The crowd went silent,
37:53all eyes glued to the surprise proposal.
37:55I felt sick to my stomach.
37:59What's going on with you?
38:01I thought Ruby was your girl.
38:04He saw me turn to leave and quickly got to his feet,
38:08reaching out to stop me.
38:10However,
38:11Ruby yanked on his arm.
38:16Sophie,
38:17hold up!
38:18You must hear me out!
38:22You're the only one in my mind.
38:25That's not what you said before.
38:28You told me once we were married.
38:31We'd lead our own lives,
38:33no meddling.
38:35I was kidding.
38:38How could I ever mean that?
38:40His face was a mix of desperation and honesty.
38:43I might have fallen for it if I had not been through what I had in my previous life.
38:48Ruby's tears came fast when she heard him.
38:51Alpha Iris,
38:52how could you say those things?
38:54You told me you liked me.
38:56You said I was more beautiful and lovable than my sister.
39:01You promised to mark me.
39:03That's why I...
39:04Enough!
39:06Iris snapped,
39:08slashing her with his claws,
39:09just like he had done to me once.
39:12Ruby's face was instantly marked with five bright red lines.
39:15This is all your fault!
39:17If it weren't for you,
39:19why would Sophie be upset
39:21and think about pairing up with another guy?
39:24He acted like he was above it all,
39:26like the idea of looking back on his actions with regret
39:29was something he would never have to deal with.
39:35You think you,
39:36with your tainted blood,
39:38are worthy of me?
39:39He had known the truth all along.
39:41He just played dumb.
39:42I'm Sophie's high and mighty,
39:44a pure-blood werewolf through and through.
39:47You?
39:47You're just her half-sister,
39:49and everyone's clued in
39:51on how low your mum's bloodline ranks.
39:53You were just a fling to me.
39:55Did you really think I'd ever mark you?
39:58Ruby's face went ghostly,
40:00a mix of pale and green.
40:01She had lived her life
40:03believing she was a true daughter of the family,
40:05with all the rights and status that came with it.
40:07However,
40:09the harsh truth of her heritage
40:10was laid bare for all to see,
40:12and the snide comments cut deep,
40:14like a blade to Ruby's heart.
40:16I'm not low-born!
40:18I'm not!
40:19I'm my father's real daughter!
40:21She cried out,
40:23her voice dripping with desperation.
40:25Iris's voice was like ice as she sneered.
40:29You think I'm clueless?
40:31Just look at yourself,
40:33your looks,
40:34your intelligence,
40:35your grace.
40:36Do you see a werewolf of noble blood?
40:40All you do is strut around for attention.
40:44You're not even fit to be Sophie's maid,
40:47let alone dream of marrying me.
40:53I had had enough
40:54and turned on my heel to leave.
40:57Sophie!
40:58You see?
40:58I've set her straight.
41:00There's nothing between us now.
41:03Give me another shot, okay?
41:05I yanked my arm free,
41:06my voice as icy as the Arctic.
41:09Alpha Iris,
41:10I'm about to become another Pax Luna.
41:13You think you're entitled to everything
41:14because of your oh-so-great bloodline?
41:17However,
41:18there's one thing you'll never get your hands on.
41:20Iris looked lost.
41:22And what's that?
41:23A do-over.
41:24There's no magic pill for regret in this world.
41:27Pretty soon,
41:29Damon and I will tie the knot.
41:32And you're totally invited
41:33to the bonding ceremony.
41:35Iris looked like he had more to say,
41:37but I did not want to hear it.
41:39I wriggled free and slammed the knot.
41:42It felt like forever
41:43before a servant came in
41:45to tell me Iris had taken off.
41:46Ruby had even tried to visit Iris
41:48at the Carter's place,
41:49but he would not even let her
41:50pass the front door.
41:52Me?
41:52I could not care less,
41:54not my circus,
41:55not my monkeys.
41:58The day of the bonding ceremony dawned.
42:01I was up with the sun,
42:03getting my glam on.
42:04Damon scooped me up in his arms
42:06like I weighed nothing,
42:07and we headed for the banquet hall.
42:09I sneaked a peek at his profile.
42:12He was nothing like Iris.
42:13Iris was the textbook snooty blue blood,
42:16with that wild child vibe
42:17and a smirk that just screamed trouble.
42:20Damon was the real deal,
42:21a gentleman through and through.
42:23He was all about precision and poise.
42:26His nose was like a sculpture,
42:28and his lips,
42:29sealed in a straight line,
42:31made him look serene.
42:32Some folks would call a guy like him ice cold,
42:35but I had seen him put his life
42:37on the line for me.
42:38That thought alone
42:39sent a wave of warmth through me.
42:41It was like history was repeating itself,
42:44but it was a whole new ballgame this time.
42:46Out of nowhere,
42:48the wedding car procession
42:49ground to a halt.
42:50I looked up,
42:51and there was Iris.
42:53Suited up and sporting the groom's boutonniere,
42:55smack in the middle of the road.
42:57The nerve!
42:58The guy was off his rocker.
43:03Damon moved to get out,
43:04but I put a hand on his chest and said,
43:07Let me deal with this mess.
43:08I want to keep things from getting too ugly.
43:11However,
43:12he grabbed my hand and said,
43:15We're in this together.
43:16For better or worse,
43:18whatever comes our way.
43:19At that moment,
43:21his hand felt like a warm cocoon around my heart,
43:23and I knew I had my rock.
43:25Iris,
43:26seeing how tight we were,
43:28just lost it even more.
43:31Sophie, come with me.
43:33You were always meant to be mine.
43:37I'll make
43:38you my Luna.
43:39I could not help but laugh at the ridiculousness of the scene.
43:43Did he really think of marriage as some kind of play?
43:47He did not value what we had before,
43:49yet there he was,
43:51making a scene.
43:52Alpha Iris,
43:54I've made myself clear.
43:55You're welcome to watch the ceremony,
43:57but if you're here to stir up trouble,
43:59I'll have the guards escort you out.
44:00Sophie,
44:01how can you talk to me like this?
44:02I'm the one you love the most,
44:04right?
44:07His words were cut short as he lunged at me,
44:10a wild look in his eyes
44:11and a gleaming silver dagger in his hand.
44:14Damon acted fast.
44:16He managed to snatch the dagger away,
44:18but not without getting hurt himself.
44:21Blood splattered on the ground.
44:23I rushed to Damon's side,
44:25pressing down on his wound,
44:26my voice filled with concern as I asked.
44:31Why must you be so reckless?
44:33Iris's voice was laced with agony as he said.
44:37You used to only worry about me.
44:39Why him?
44:41I shot Iris an icy look.
44:44Damon is my partner.
44:46Of course I'm going to be worried about him.
44:48The guards had Iris pinned down,
44:50effectively caging him in.
44:52Out of nowhere,
44:53Ruby appeared,
44:55sobbing as she clung to Iris.
44:56Alpha Iris,
44:57I'll be your Luna.
44:58I'm ready to go through your marking ceremony.
45:02Iris quickly defended himself.
45:04Sophie,
45:05I never intended to mark her.
45:07He turned to me,
45:08his voice barely above a whisper as he said.
45:11I messed up.
45:12Please give me one more chance.
45:15I promise I'll make it up to you.
45:17I won't let you down again.
45:22I was done listening to his empty promises.
45:26Take him away.
45:27Let the High King deal with him.
45:29I commanded,
45:30my voice as sharp as ice.
45:33Once I was back in the car,
45:34a healer from our entourage came over to tend to us.
45:38The good news was that the cut had not been tainted with Wolfsbane.
45:41It only needed a quick cleaning,
45:43and we were good to go.
45:45The bonding ceremony went off without a hitch.
45:48Iris got the boot,
45:49and I heard that the High King's enforcers gave him a week-long time out to think about what he
45:54had done.
45:55As dusk settled in,
45:57the last of the party guests trickled out.
45:59I slipped into my silk nightgown and hopped into bed.
46:03Damon was already there,
46:04leaning against the headboard.
46:06When he saw me,
46:07his eyes darkened with obvious desire.
46:09I crawled toward him with a playful smile.
46:12You've been staring at me all evening.
46:15What's on your mind, husband?
46:18He reached out,
46:19pulling me smoothly into his arms until I was straddling his lap.
46:23You.
46:24Always you.
46:25He said,
46:26voice low and husky.
46:28His hands settled on my waist,
46:30thumbs gently stroking my sides.
46:34We weren't exactly close before.
46:36Why are you being so nice to me?
46:40What do you mean by nice?
46:42You've been staring at me all evening.
46:44What's on your mind, husband?
46:46Ignore those gossips.
46:48I'm the lucky one here.
46:52Iris' loss is my gain.
46:54His words felt like a gentle breeze brushing across my heart,
46:57spreading a sweet warmth inside me.
46:59Damon said with a soft smile.
47:02I've liked you for a very long time.
47:04My eyes widened in disbelief.
47:07Remember when we were kids and my parents were still alive?
47:09We visited your house.
47:11You were just a little over a year old,
47:13pouting and asking me for candy.
47:15Right then,
47:16I thought there couldn't be a cuter little girl in the world.
47:19After my parents passed away,
47:21I didn't go out much.
47:22But every time you went out to play,
47:24I would secretly watch you from afar.
47:26I didn't want to disturb you,
47:28but it hurt me to see you doing so much for Alpha Iris.
47:34But now,
47:35I don't have to worry anymore.
47:37Damon grinned,
47:38looking extremely pleased with himself.
47:40It turned out he had been watching over me silently for so long.
47:45Fate really was unpredictable.
47:47Suddenly,
47:48a thought came to mind.
47:49I heard you were there
47:50when your parents had that terrible accident.
47:52After that,
47:53your health,
47:54your health.
47:58Damon lowered his voice and said,
48:01If you want to know whether I'm fine,
48:03come closer and find out.
48:05My cheeks instantly flushed red.
48:07I lowered my head,
48:09too embarrassed to speak.
48:10The atmosphere between us quickly grew heated.
48:13Damon cupped my face,
48:15his thumb gently stroking my burning cheek.
48:19Sophie,
48:19I've waited years for this,
48:21for you.
48:22He whispered,
48:23his voice thick with desire.
48:25His hands roamed over my silk nightgown,
48:28slowly sliding it off my shoulders.
48:30I shivered as his warm lips trailed down my neck and across my collarbone.
48:34He kissed me deeply,
48:36pulling me closer until our bodies were pressed tightly together.
48:43We moved together with tenderness and passion.
48:46Damon made love to me slowly and deeply,
48:49every touch filled with long-suppressed affection and devotion.
48:52I clung to him,
48:53soft moans escaping my lips as pleasure washed over us in waves.
48:57Afterward,
48:58we lay tangled in the sheets,
49:00his strong arms wrapped protectively around me as he pressed gentle kisses to my forehead and temple.
49:05Months rolled by,
49:06and I found myself expecting a baby.
49:09The High King's second-in-command dropped by with news,
49:12the High King was ready to pass the torch,
49:14and Damon was to take over some royal duties.
49:17The High King had said when his time was running out,
49:20Look, forget the small stuff.
49:22Just make sure you take care of those misfits so the regular folks can put food on their table.
49:28Ruby was a no-show at the High King's funeral.
49:32Curious.
49:32I asked a servant and learned that Ruby's mind seemed to have wandered after Iris ditched her.
49:37Our dad had her sent to a sanatorium,
49:40but she escaped without a trace.
49:47Maybe a lone wolf took her under its wing.
49:49Poor thing.
49:50The servant said with a sigh.
49:52It looked like Ruby's story was bound to have a sad ending.
49:56Then,
49:56Iris wanted to hold down the fort at the border.
49:59So,
50:00following the High King's last wishes,
50:02Damon doled out some land to him.
50:04Post-split,
50:06Iris went wild.
50:07By day,
50:08he would scout the border.
50:10By night,
50:11he would dive into the High Life.
50:13Then,
50:14one day,
50:14he came looking for Damon.
50:16The guard stopped him at the gate,
50:18but I bumped into him while on an errand.
50:21His hair was messy,
50:22his face scruffy,
50:23and he said he needed a word with me.
50:27Sophie,
50:27did you know?
50:28I'm actually your husband.
50:31We tied the knot in my previous life,
50:34and it was Bliss.
50:37I could not help but snicker.
50:40Bliss?
50:41Why didn't you mention how you poisoned me?
50:44You really did a number on me.
50:47He froze,
50:48and his face paled.
50:50How did you know?
50:54So,
50:55you've been reborn too.
50:58That must be why you dare face Damon again.
51:01I said,
51:02ice in my voice.
51:03He stumbled backward,
51:05his voice catching in his throat.
51:08I,
51:08I,
51:09I,
51:09I did not give him another glance.
51:12I strode straight for the castle gates.
51:16As they shut behind me,
51:18the muffled sounds of the guards hauling him away echoed faintly.
51:21Then,
51:22out of nowhere,
51:23a shout pierced the air.
51:25Good heavens!
51:27There's been an accident.
51:28Iris got slashed with a dagger laced with some kind of silver toxin.
51:33I did not look back.
51:35My steps did not falter.
51:37I was on my way to a new chapter,
51:39a life filled with promise and joy.
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